Best Wireless Carplay Adapter

What is the best wireless Carplay adapter? What are the benefits of using a wireless Carplay adapter in my car? These are a few questions that car owners ask whenever they want to improve their in-car infotainment experience. 

So, you have brought your dream car and are all set to take it out for a spin or on that trip/vacation you have always had on your mind. After jumping into your car, the next thing that pops up in your mind is music and the navigation system. While reaching for your phone, a thought hits you out of the blue — you shouldn't use your phone while driving. Driving demands your undivided attention and focus if you wish to get to your destination safely and without compromising the safety of other road users. What do you do? Get a wireless Carplay adapter! 

This leads us to the million-dollar question;

What is a wireless Carplay adapter and how does it work?

Thanks to advancements in technology, smartphones are fast becoming useful and a common sight in cars. However, using your phone while driving is a distraction that could end in unpleasant events. Unless you don't mind getting booked and hitching a ride downtown, you will do everything possible not to break traffic laws.

One smart way to go about it is investing in a high-quality and reliable wireless Carplay adapter. This will help you maintain focus while driving and also enable you to access navigation apps via an infotainment system that is driven by an iOS-like interface. 

Thanks to Siri voice control, once your car is connected to Apple's Carplay via a wireless adapter (Carplay wireless adapter), you can use voice commands to automatically control and perform tasks like playing music and making phone calls while driving — without taking your eyes off the road and hands off the steering wheel. 

What are the advantages of buying the best Carplay wireless adapter?

• You have less need to take your eyes off the road
• Improved focus
• Improved situational awareness
• Fast reaction and response time
• Enhanced and reliable input method when visibility is hindered or limited
• Enhanced in-car sound/audio quality

As you might have noticed, all of the above-mentioned benefits of having a Carplay wireless adapter installed in your vehicle are geared toward making you a better and more responsible road user. 

4 Best Wireless Carplay Adapter Options For Your Car

1. CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter

Because of its long-standing history of stable and fast connection and compatibility with virtually every car brand, the CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay adapter has repeatedly and continuously featured on the list of best wireless Carplay adapters. As such, making it a popular choice for most car owners. The recent upgrade takes its signature fast, smooth, and easy connectivity to the next level.

In addition to automatically connecting with your iPhone whenever you get into your car (which is super convenient compared to using cable) and the compatibility with iPhone 5 through iPhone 13, CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay adapter is also applauded for the ease with which it can be used to replace existing cable Carplay system —  replace USB Carplay system with wireless Carplay adapter! 

It is easy and fast to install — all you have to do is enable your BlueTooth and WiFi, and your device will automatically sync with Carplay. The initial connection is made via BlueTooth while the remainder is done over WiFi from that point onward — that way, you are sure to get the full data connection and music streaming without any hindrances or glitches. 

Another interesting feature onboard the CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay adapter is that you can set up multiple devices (phones), and they will be registered in the system and clearly listed on your display screen or interface whenever the device comes up. Regarding mounting the device, it comes with a USB cord that is long enough to connect the console to the vehicle and short enough to not make a wire mess. Then there is the one-year worldwide guarantee and free updates.

Pros

• Works with almost all car models from 2015 upwards — 98% compatibility with factor wired CarPlay function
• Fast and automatic connection with paired device (at 5.8 GHz WIFI rate)
• Support real-time navigation 
• Highest sound quality with no glitches
• Wireless connection
• Easy to set up and use

Cons

• Flashing green light when on 
• Slight input lag 
• Not available for Androids
• Firmware update can take up to 4 minutes with red/green flashing until the update is complete

2. OTTOCAST Wireless CarPlay Adapter

Having just unveiled its recent upgrade earlier in 2020, the OTTOCAST U2-AIR Wireless Apple CarPlay adapter, OTTOCAST is another force to contend with in the business of wireless Carplay adapters. With support for over 600+ car models and lighting, fast start-up time/boot time sitting under 7 seconds, and ease of installation (converting wired CarPlay to wireless CarPlay), it is a no-brainer why this sleek and compact CarPlay adapter comes recommended for almost any car.

It doesn't matter if your phone is buried under your backpack or in your pockets, OTTOCAST U2-AIR Wireless Apple CarPlay adapter will automatically connect to your iPhone — all thanks to its inbuilt 5Ghz WIFI module. This brand of wireless Carplay adapter offers great features and functions, including voice control compatibility, steering wheel control, touch screen control, and knob operation. It also allows you to interact with SIRI and make driving less stressful — by giving you full control over your music controls, navigating, and reading text messages.

In addition to its compatibility with vehicle models between 2016 and 2022 with factory-wired CarPlay, it works well with iPhones running IOS 6 and later versions; it also serves as the perfect gift item for your loved one. That way, everybody around you gets to experience the convenience that OTTOCAST Wireless CarPlay adapter has to offer.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to install — can be installed over BlueTooth, WIFI, hot spot connection
• Connects automatically when the car engine starts 
• Easy to configure
• Strong compatibility
• Stable network with strong penetration (powered by inbuilt 5Ghz WIFI module)

Cons

• No wireless Android function
• Not compatible with BMW, Mitsubishi, 2016 Buick LaCrosse, 2019 Honda CRV, 2019 ACURA RDX
• Doesn't work with non-factory-wired CarPlay cars
• Sony, Pioneer, and Boss After-market head units are not supported

3. Vrriis Wireless CarPlay Adapter

Like most of its counterparts, Vrriis wireless CarPlay adapter also work with USB-A and Type-C Port CarPlay. It leverages its wireless CarPlay adapter 3.1 to convert factory-wired CarPlay to wireless. Thanks to its robust and reliable wireless connection capability, it is almost impossible to tell the difference between Vrriis wireless CarPlay adapter connection and a wired connection — it doesn't lag and can relay real-time GPS navigation prompts without a glitch. 

How about voice control, Siri, message access, phone call prompts, and online music? Vrriis wireless CarPlay adapter check all the boxes. Compatibility with vehicles is at 98%, as it is compatible with most popular car brands, including Audi, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Honda civic, and several others. However, you can only use it in cars whose Carplay functions are factory wired before market. 

Regarding phone compatibility, this Carplay adapter works harmoniously with virtually every iPhone running the IOS 7.1, including iPhone 5 to the remarkably iPhone 13 pro max. Connection is robust and automatic — you can connect your iPhone seamlessly and automatically after the first pairing over BlueTooth and WiFi. It features a plug-and-play function, and it is incredibly easy to install — with connection time ranging between 7 to 14 seconds. 

What makes this wireless Carplay adapter stand out is its unique size. It is portable and doesn't take up space in your car. Think a subtle wireless CarPlay adapter that can convert factory-wired Apple CarPlay to wireless CarPlay. If you are looking to upgrade your car to wireless Carplay, this is one of the best Carplay adapters you should look out for.

Pros

• Works out of the box — plug and play device 
• Connects automatically with paired device whenever the car engine comes on
• Upgrade is not needed if it's functioning well
• Compact and stylish design — its small size doesn't take up useful space in your car

Cons

• Only compatible with iPhones
• Doesn't allow you to watch videos

4. SuperiorTek 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter

SuperiorTek wireless Carplay adapter is one of the most reliable choices in the market. You can conveniently take advantage of this unit to convert all factory-wired CarPlay to wireless in record time, maximum comfort, and satisfaction. It leverages BlueTooth, WiFi, and USB connectivity technology to link your phone (iPhone) to your car and deliver the best in-car infotainment experience — play music, get navigation prompts, read and send messages,

This wireless Carplay adapter offers plug and play function that allows you to connect your device automatically after installation and first pairing — all you have to do is keep your BlueTooth and WiFi on and the connection is instant whenever you get in the car and turn the engine on. It is that easy! Connection is fast and doesn't lag: it takes a few seconds to establish a full connection, and you will be on your way to listening to your favorite music. Leave your phone in your pocket, car trunk, or backpack; it will still connect.

SuperiorTek wireless Carplay adapter takes reliability to a whole new level by introducing next-generation technology-driven Smart IC chips and unrivaled signal filter technology. These features are geared towards ensuring a smooth, continuous, and reliable connection while also strengthening your WiFi signal. That way, you are sure not to experience delays and lags during phone calls. Other advantages of this technology are that it reduces noise while you are listening to music and provides access to real-time GPS navigation. 

Pro

• Super easy installation 
• Boots up within 5 to 10 second
• Responsive map and GPS navigation without lags
• Steering wheel controls, touch screen, and knobs controls work perfectly
• Pass-through USB port to charge other devices

Cons

• Heating problem

Factors to consider when choosing the best wireless Carplay adapter

While it is true that wireless Carplay adapters offer a long list of advantages and play a pivotal role in taking driving from boring to pleasurable and fun — all thanks to their astonishing features. If you are equipped with knowledge of how wireless Carplay adapters work, getting the best wireless Carplay adapter at pocket-friendly rates won't be a problem. 

Here is our checklist of what to consider when choosing the best wireless Carplay adapter:

• Durability 

While there are genuine and reliable wireless Carplay adapter manufacturers out there, there are others who derive joy in selling low quality adapters to unsuspecting buyers — especially first-time car owners. That way, you are sure to buy another unit or replace the faulty unit after a short period of use. Unless you are a pro and are familiar with different models and brands of wireless Carplay adapters, you will struggle to spot the gimmicks from the legit manufacturers. To be on the safer side, take advantage of the list of top CarPlay adapters we just shared; rest assured, you will get value for your money. 

• Cost

Apple CarPlay systems are notorious for glitches and frequent need for software updates — which can be really frustrating. Thankfully, all hope is not lost as you have the choice of upgrading your car audio system with wireless Carplay adapters. And No, you don't have to upgrade the entire. All you have to do is get one of the best wireless Carplay adapters on our list, and you are good to go. 

You would probably be wondering and asking yourself how much does one has to spend to get one of those. Bear in mind that the best wireless Carplay adapters aren't necessarily the most expensive ones. You can get a reliable and durable unit at a competitive rate. There is a wireless Carplay adapter for every budget. 

Tip: Don't take the first option that you see. Always research the best options and compare prices. 

• Compatibility 

It is not unusual for people to order CarPlay adapters online only to find out that their car model is not supported or they can only access limited features/functions. In addition to not being compatible with some car models, you must also check to see if the adapter is compatible with your phone. As a quick trip and guide, always have it at the back of your mind that almost all wireless Carplay adapters are only compatible with car models from 2015 to 2022 and only work with iPhone 5 through to iPhone 13 pro max running on IOS 6, IOS 7.1 and recent version. 

FAQs

Can I convert my Apple CarPlay to wireless?

Yes, you can convert your wired Apple CarPlay to wireless CarPlay. However, because of compatibility requirements on different CarPlay adapters, this upgrade is mostly available to most car models (manufactured between 2015/2016 to 2022) with factory-wired CarPlay function. So, it is always best to check your car compatibility before buying a wireless CarPlay adapter to convert your Apple CarPlay to wireless. 

How do wireless CarPlay Adapters work?

Not to confuse you with technical jargon, you can think of wireless Carplay adapters as the conduit for connecting your iPhone to your car. Think IOS is designed for cars. How wireless Carplay adapters work is simple and easy to understand. They are designed to leverage Siri voice commands to make driving less stressful. You get to listen to your favorite music and podcasts on the go, get real-time GPS navigation prompts and displays, and read and send text messages without taking your eyes off the road and straining your eyes on your phone screen. 

The connection can be made over regular BlueTooth and WiFi networks, and your phone will pair or sync automatically after the first installation — as long as your BlueTooth and WiFi are on, your device will auto-connect when you get in your car and turn on the engine. 

Conclusion

Getting a new car fills the heart with joy and loads of excitement. However, your excitement may be cut short when you try out the infotainment system. Because car manufacturers and designers are not trained in software and UI design, they often pack the car with complicated control systems that make the simplest things, like connecting your smartphone to your car, stressful, tiring, and frustrating. 

But all hope is not lost as you can upgrade your factory-wired Apple CarPlay system to wireless. All you need to do is get a reliable wireless Carplay adapter, install it, and you are all set to go. We have shared the list of top wireless Carplay adapters to consider and their amazing features (including pros and cons). Now that you have all you need to make the right choice of Apple CarPlay adapter go ahead and make your pick with confidence.

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